Photo © Meghan Pinsonnault/Stocksy

Skiing and Snowboarding Travel Insurance Coverage

Canadian Residents Can Protect Against Skiing Injuries, Ski Resort Closures, Damaged Gear & More

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  • As featured in:

At a glance:

  • World Nomads offers travel insurance for skiing and snowboarding to help cover medical emergencies, stolen gear and trip cancellations.
  • Our plans include emergency medical evacuation coverage if you get injured while skiing or snowboarding in remote areas.
  • We provide gear protection if your ski equipment is stolen or accidentally damaged by your common carrier during your trip.
  • If your trip is disrupted by illness or injuries (amongst other covered reasons), adventure travel insurance for skiing may help cover your unused, prepaid, non-refundable trip costs.

Are you dreaming of skiing down slopes in Italy, Austria, Switzerland or France? How about within Canada? No matter where you’re headed for wintry fun, it helps to always be prepared for the unexpected when skiing and snowboarding. Ski travel insurance for Europe, the US and within Canada all include a range of benefits that could help with everything from stolen ski gear to unexpected medical emergency expenses.

Why should I consider international ski insurance for my trip?

Unexpected issues can mess up even the most carefully planned ski trips. For example, those seeking fresh powder flock to Japan each winter to hit the slopes, but what happens if an injury puts a halt to your fun? Ski insurance for Japan may help you bounce back quickly with support for medical and travel emergencies, delays, and disruptions. With coverage that is flexible to your needs, it’s a smart way to travel confidently when you’re skiing outside of your home province.

Nomads tip: World Nomads Travel Insurance can also cover your travels within Canada! Your Government Health Plan is limited once you leave your province. Your travel insurance plan can protect your domestic travels outside of your home province too.

Ski and Snowboard Travel Insurance: What may be covered?

Whether you’re in fresh powder or on the bunny hill, navigating steep (and even not so steep) terrain can be tricky. It only takes one bad fall or collision to end up with a broken ankle, a dislocated shoulder or a wrist fracture. If you’re heading south to the United States to hit the slopes in Breckenridge, Vail or Palisades, you may want to consider getting a quote for travel insurance for skiing in the US. We also offer coverage for more than 250 other sports, activities and experiences.

  1. Emergency Medical Expenses
    For injuries when skiing that require emergency medical treatment

  2. 24/7 Emergency Assistance
    Available 24/7 to assist in an emergency situation, on or off the slopes

  3. Baggage & Gear Coverage
    Damaged or stolen ski gear

  4. Trip Cancellations, Trip Interruptions and Delays
    Travel protection for your unused, pre-paid, nonrefundable trip costs and unexpected expenses if your trip is interrupted.

Get a quote and compare the plans to see which level of coverage is right for you.

What level of travel insurance coverage do I need for my ski trip?

World Nomads offers two plans for Canadian residents – the Standard and Explorer – each with different levels of coverage.

  • Standard Plan – This is the most basic plan but includes up to $5,000,000 CAD in emergency medical expenses and $2,500 CAD for trip cancellation.
  • Explorer Plan – This adventure travel insurance plan also covers skiing but has higher limits of coverage.

Even if your main goal is to go skiing, you’ll probably also be doing other things like snowmobiling or snow biking. That’s totally fine, because there are over 250+ sports, activities and experiences that could be covered when you purchase adventure travel insurance. When you purchase your policy, you’ll need to list skiing, snowboarding and all of the other activities that you plan to participate in while on your trip. You won’t be able to add or remove activities after you make your purchase, so make sure you add them all at that time.  Costs may vary depending on the activities you list. Most forms of Skiing are a Level 3 activity and require an additional premium to cover, so be sure to buy the proper coverage for your ski trip!

If you are planning to participate in an activity that isn’t listed in our policy wording, you will need to contact us to determine if you will be covered. 

Nomads tip: Get a quote and choose your plan first, then the system will prompt you to add the activities you plan to do. Make sure you list them all; you won’t be able to make changes once on your trip.

Get a travel insurance quote

Simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling, and claim online from anywhere in the world.

Get a quote
A person skiing

What may not be covered when on a ski trip?

Save the cocktails for apres-ski. If you start taking shots off of the shot ski, and then get hurt, you may not be covered. Travel insurance for skiing won’t cover you if you are injured when you’re under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Some other things that aren’t covered include:

  • Unattended baggage, ski gear or personal items
  • Damage to ski equipment while you’re using it
  • Not following government ‘Do Not Travel’ advisories issued by the Canadian government
  • Travelling or skiing in your home province
  • Search and rescue missions
  • Not following the International Ski Federation code or the ski resort’s regulations
  • Pre-existing medical conditions
  • Participation in other activities not listed as covered in your policy
  • Competitions, racing or national squad training, acrobatics, tricks, stunting, freestyle, aerials or jumps.
  • Ignoring your doctor if they have explicitly advised you not to go skiing or snowboarding

Top safety tips we recommend for skiing

From our own time on the slopes, we’ve discovered that you never know what might happen next. We’ve learned that it helps tremendously to be prepared in those situations – whether you’re skiing in Europe, Japan, the US, or even here in Canada. Here are a few of our personal tips that you may find helpful when planning your next ski vacation.

  • Always wear a helmet that fits you properly.
  • Dress in multiple layers and look for insulated clothing made of moisture-wicking material. You’ll also want to make sure your outerwear is waterproof.
  • Take a lesson from a reputable instructor.
  • Ski within your skill level. (If you’ve just taken your first lesson, you should probably avoid the black diamonds for a while.)
  • Control your speed and stay in control.
  • Stay on marked trails.
  • Check with the Public Health Agency of Canada to see if they have issued any travel health notices for the destination where you’ll be skiing.
  • Register with Canadians Abroad to stay updated on emergency situations.
  • Save a copy of your travel insurance for skiing documents in your phone. Have the phone number for the 24/7 Emergency Assistance team easily accessible as well.

FAQ

Here are our most frequently asked questions about cover for skiiing. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team

  • Are skiing and snowboarding covered under World Nomads Travel Insurance?

    Yes, skiing and snowboarding may be covered under both plans offered by World Nomads Travel Insurance, but you’ll still need to list these activities when you purchase your travel insurance for skiing policy. Most skiing activities are considered Level 3; if you aren’t sure if something is covered, we suggest you contact us to ask.

  • What types of incidents are covered while on a ski trip?

    If your trip is cancelled, delayed, or interrupted due to an unforeseen event, you may be able to recover your unused, non-refundable, prepaid travel expenses (up to the policy limits), and this could include unused, prepaid, non-refundable tours that you paid for in advance. If you get hurt while skiing and require medical assistance, emergency medical coverage could come in handy in the case of an unexpected injury. You could also be covered for unplanned situations such as lost bags or if the Canadian government issues a travel advisory telling travellers not to go to a destination on your itinerary.

Need destination inspiration for your next ski trip?

While there are great places to ski here in Canada (and you can get ski insurance for Canada as long as you’re skiing outside of your home province), there’s an abundance of great places around the world to ski and snowboard. Check out a couple of our favorite locations and get destination-specific travel insurance tips to help you plan with confidence.

Five Great Ways to Experience Germany in Winter

Skiing in Japan: The Best Resorts to Check Out Now

Skiing in Italy’s Dolomites

Four Reasons to Visit Turkey in Winter

Bluebird Colorado: A Local’s Guide to Skiing in the Rockies

Austria Essential Skiing and Snow Tips

Four Winter Wilderness Adventures in Central and Eastern Canada

This is only a summary of coverage and does not include the full terms and conditions of the policy. It is important you read and understand your policy as it contains benefits, conditions, exclusions and pre-existing condition exclusions. If you do not understand your coverage, or if you have questions, just ask us.

Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you

Trip Cancellation

Been working hard for your trip?

We'll work hard to protect it.

Trip Protection
  • Work emergency?
  • Weather delay?
  • Travel companion sick?

We’ve got your back.

Emergency Medical Expenses

Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?

Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.

Emergency Medical Insurance
  • Accidentally injured?
  • Suddenly sick?
  • Need a hospital?

We’ve got your back.

Emergency Medical Transportation

Know where the nearest hospital is?

Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.

Evacuation and Repatriation
  • Ambulance transfers
  • Medevac flights
  • Medical escort services

Help starts here.

Protect your gear

Love photography, filming or sport?

Cover your bags, tech or gear.

Protect your gear
  • Stolen I.D.s
  • Checked-in sports equipment
  • Damaged luggage

Help starts here.

  • Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
  • Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
  • Trip Cancellation or Interruption
  • 24-Hour Assistance Services
  • Baggage
  • And more (depending on your country of residence)
*This is a general summary only. Restrictions, exclusions and limitations will apply. Coverage may not be available for all countries, states or provinces. Benefit limits may vary depending on the plan chosen. Get a quote for full details.

24/7 emergency assistance

Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.

Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?

Contact the team
Photo © Meghan Pinsonnault/Stocksy

Skiing and Snowboarding Travel Insurance Coverage

US Residents Can Protect Against Skiing Injuries, Ski Resort Closures, Damaged Gear & More

    As featured in:

  • As featured in:

At a glance:

  • All World Nomads plans cover losses resulting from skiing and snowboarding trips. Higher-tier plans offer coverage for more extreme skiing and snowboarding activities.
  • Emergency Medical Coverage may assist with medical costs and transport if you're seriously hurt while skiing or snowboarding.
  • Our travel protection plans include transportation if your condition is severe, acute, or life-threatening and adequate treatment is not available in your immediate area. Additional terms apply.
  • Gear and baggage protection helps cover lost, stolen, or damaged ski gear and luggage.
  • An optional Cancel for Any Reason upgrade is available on some plans (additional cost and state restrictions may apply).

Are you dreaming of peaks in Italy, Austria, Switzerland or France? Or are you planning to stay in the United States to hit the slopes in Breckenridge, Vail, or Palisades? No matter where you’re headed for wintry fun, it helps to always be prepared for the unexpected when skiing and snowboarding. A travel protection plan that includes ski trip insurance coverage for Europe, the US, or any other snowy destination can help protect your adventure. Travel insurance benefits for skiing may help with everything from stolen ski gear to unexpected medical expenses.

Why should I consider travel insurance for my ski trip?

Unexpected issues can mess up even the most carefully planned ski trips. For example, those seeking fresh powder flock to Japan each winter to hit the slopes, but what happens if a blizzard hits and puts a halt to your fun? A travel protection plan that includes ski insurance coverage for Japan may help you bounce back quickly with support for emergencies, delays, and disruptions. Getting evacuated off a snowy mountain in a foreign country is not cheap and with a sport as risky as skiing, travel insurance can be even more important.

Travel insurance and non-insurance services for skiing and snowboarding trips: What may be covered?

Whether you’re on a black diamond at Chamonix Mont Blanc or on the bunny hill in the Dolomites, navigating steep (and even not so steep) terrain can be tricky. It only takes one bad fall or collision to end up with a broken ankle, a dislocated shoulder, or a wrist fracture. Since unexpected situations can happen on the slopes, we’ve designed our travel protection plans to include travel insurance coverage for skiing and snowboarding trips. We also offer coverage for losses related to more than 250+ other sports, activities and experiences.

  1. Emergency Medical Expenses
    For injuries that happen when skiing

  2. Non-insurance Emergency Assistance
    Available 24/7 to assist in an emergency situation on or off the slopes

  3. Baggage & Gear Coverage
    Damaged or stolen ski gear or luggage that is lost

  4. Trip DelaysInterruptionsCancellations
    A money-saver if inclement weather keeps you from going on your ski trip

Terms, conditions, and limitations apply to all mentioned coverages. Get a quote and compare the plans to see which level of coverage is right for you.

All plans include adventure travel insurance coverage for skiing, as well as several additional non-insurance services that may support you both before and during your trip. These include delayed or lost baggage tracking and delivery, portable health records and pre-departure telehealth services.

What level of travel insurance coverage do I need for my ski trip?

World Nomads offers four plans for U.S. residents – Standard, Explorer, Epic and Annual – each with different levels of coverage. Even when your main goal is to go skiing, you may want to enjoy other fun winter activities like snowmobiling or snowshoeing. That’s totally fine, because you may be covered for losses resulting from more than 250+ other sports, activities and experiences when you purchase a travel protection plan.

  • Standard Plan – This is the most basic plan, but includes travel insurance coverage for incidents while skiing (cross country/nordic skiing on marked trails, dry slope, heli, on piste or off piste within resort boundaries, power assisted, and snowblading.) Snowboarding (dry slope, heli, and on piste or off piste within resort boundaries) is also included. It includes up to $125,000 in emergency medical expenses and up to $2,500 for trip cancellation.
  • Explorer Plan – This plan includes everything in the Standard plan, plus even more activities – including more extreme skiing and snowboarding activities such as acrobatics, free-style, jumping, flying, stunting, backcountry/outside of resort boundary/alpine ski touring, by helicopter/snow cat, racing, and skiing and snowboarding in a terrain park within a resort. Skiing with a miniwing (speed riding) is also covered, as is serving as a ski or snowboard instructor or guide (paid or volunteer.) It also has higher limits of coverage for most benefits.
  • Epic Plan – This covers everything the Explorer plan covers, plus even more activities – including glacier walking (up to 26,247 feet/8,000 meters) and ice climbing (up to 26,247 feet/8,000 meters). It also has the highest benefit limits of coverage.
  • Annual Plan – If you’re planning multiple trips throughout the year, this plan may be for you. Just buy once and stay protected all year. It includes adventure travel insurance coverage for skiing, as well as all of the other activities covered in the Standard Plan.

NOMADS TIP: For even more trip cancellation flexibility, check out the optional ‘Cancel for Any Reason’ benefit. It can be added to Explorer and Epic plans. Available at an additional cost for U.S. residents, except in New York.

Get a travel insurance quote

Simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling, and claim online from anywhere in the world.

Get a quote
A person skiing

What may not be covered when on your skiing trip?

Save the cocktails for apres-ski. Travel insurance for skiing trips won’t cover you if you’re under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Some other things that aren’t covered include:

  • Unattended baggage, ski gear or personal items
  • Damage to ski equipment while you’re using it
  • Not following ‘Do Not Travel’ warnings issued by the US government prior to departure
  • Participation in activities not listed in our 250+ sports, activities and experiences
  • Ignoring your doctor if they have advised in writing that you are not medically fit to travel
  • Traveling or skiing within 100 miles of your home
  • Wear and tear from everyday use of sporting equipment. Gear that is in use is not covered.
  • Skiing or snowboarding in a competition or for salary/competition
  • Pre-existing Conditions. However, you could be eligible for the Pre-Existing Medical Condition Exclusion Waiver if you purchased the Epic or Explorer plan during the time-sensitive period and were medically able and not disabled from travel, based on the assessment of a physician, to travel at the time of purchase when you buy the plan. A definition of a pre-existing condition can be found in your plan document.

Top safety tips we recommend for your skiing trips

We’ve had many perfect runs in ski parks around the world. Every once in a while though, things happen. We’ve learned that it helps tremendously to be prepared in those situations – whether you’re skiing in Europe, Japan, Canada or even here in the US. Here’s a few of our personal tips that you may find helpful when planning your next ski trip.

  • Always wear a helmet that fits you properly.
  • Dress in multiple layers and look for insulated clothing made of moisture-wicking material. You’ll also want to make sure your outerwear is waterproof.
  • Take a lesson from a reputable instructor.
  • Ski within your skill level. (If you’ve just taken your first lesson, you should probably avoid the black diamonds for a while.)
  • Stay on marked trails.
  • Don’t drink and ski. Being under the influence of alcohol or drugs increases your chance of being injured – and if you get hurt, you may not be covered by your travel insurance coverage for skiing.
  • Take advantage of the pre-departure medical consultation included in your non-insurance services and see if there are any vaccinations or prescription medications, like altitude sickness pills, recommended for your destination (additional costs may apply).
  • Check with the Department of State to see if they have issued any travel advisories for your destination.
  • Enroll in the free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to stay updated on emergency situations.
  • Have a copy of your plan documents saved in your phone. Save the phone number for the 24/7 Non-insurance Emergency Assistance team and have that easily accessible as well.

FAQ

Here are our most frequently asked questions about cover for skiing and snowboarding. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team

  • Can skiing and snowboarding be covered under World Nomads Travel Insurance?

    Yes, the Standard and Annual plans include travel insurance coverage for losses related to incidents that occur while skiing (cross country/nordic skiing on marked trails, dry slope, heli, on piste or off piste within resort boundaries, power assisted, and snowblading.) Losses related to snowboarding (dry slope, heli, and on piste or off piste within resort boundaries) are also included. The Explorer Plan includes everything in the Standard plan, plus even more activities – including more extreme skiing and snowboarding, including acrobatics, free-style, jumping, flying, stunting, backcountry/outside of resort boundary/alpine ski touring, by helicopter/snow cat, racing, and skiing and snowboarding in a terrain park within a resort. Skiing with a miniwing (speed riding) is also covered, as is serving as a ski or snowboard instructor or guide (paid or volunteer.) If you want higher limits of coverage, you’ll want to consider the Explorer or Epic plan.

  • What happens if there’s no snow and I can’t ski on my trip?

    We can’t control the weather, but a travel protection plan may help. For example, if you have a travel protection plan that includes ski insurance coverage for your trip to Europe, and your ski resort in the Dolomites closes all or part of its facilities for at least one day due to lack of snow or inclement weather that causes a cessation of services, you may get $250 per incident as a ‘travel inconvenience’ (up to plan limits). You must have purchased the Explorer or Epic plan within the time sensitive period in order to be eligible. Additional terms and conditions apply.

  • What happens if the ski slopes close during my trip?

    Your travel protection plan from World Nomads may help ease the disappointment. For instance, if you have a travel protection plan that includes ski insurance coverage for your trip to Japan, and at least 50% of the trails or slopes at your ski resort in Niseko are closed for at least eight consecutive hours for various reasons, subject to terms and conditions, you may receive reimbursement for your ski lift ticket. Read your plan for details of this “Trip Interruption” benefit available on the Explorer and Epic Plans.

  • Can I purchase a plan after my trip starts?

    Yes. If your trip has already started, World Nomads can still offer you coverage. You can buy a plan that includes adventure travel insurance coverage for skiing online anytime, from anywhere in the world. World Nomads Travel Insurance for U.S. residents takes effect at 12:01 a.m. local time the day after you purchase your plan. If you’re already traveling and want to get coverage for skiing, you’ll need to purchase your plan at least the day before you need coverage.

  • What should I do if I get hurt while skiing?

    If you get hurt while skiing, contact local authorities as soon as you’re able to do so for immediate attention. World Nomads Travel Insurance may help cover the cost of medical treatment, hospital stays, or even emergency medical evacuation if needed (subject to approval.) Access to a 24/7 Non-Insurance Emergency Assistance team is also included for support anytime, anywhere when you purchase a travel protection plan.

  • Do I get my money back if I cancel a trip?

    Trip cancellation coverage is offered by all plans offered by World Nomads, and you may be reimbursed for pre-paid, unused, non-refundable expenses like flights, tours and accommodations if your trip is cancelled for a covered reason. U.S. residents (except those that live in New York) also have the ability to add additional cancel for any reason coverage when certain World Nomads plans are purchased.

  • What happens if my bags are delayed?
    When you purchase travel insurance coverage for skiing trips, baggage coverage is also included. If your checked-in bags are delayed more than 12 consecutive hours on the way to your destination, your plan may reimburse you for reasonable essential items like toiletries and a change of clothes until you and your bag are reunited. Your coverage also includes non-insurance service that can help track down your bag and get it delivered to you.

Need destination inspiration for your next ski trip?

While there are great places to ski here in the United States, there’s an abundance of great places around the world to also check out. Check out a couple of our favorite locations and get destination-specific travel insurance tips to help you plan with confidence.

Five Great Ways to Experience Germany in Winter

Skiing in Japan: The Best Resorts to Check Out Now

Skiing in Italy’s Dolomites

Four Reasons to Visit Turkey in Winter

Bluebird Colorado: A Local’s Guide to Skiing in the Rockies

Austria Essential Skiing and Snow Tips

Four Winter Wilderness Adventures in Central and Eastern Canada


20251014-4898509. TThis is not a full list of what is and isn’t covered, so please check your plan document for a full list of maximums, terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions that may apply to your state specific plan. Any example scenarios provided above are not a guarantee of coverage. All claims are subject to review, require documentation and are considered individually. Exclusion applies to Adventure or Extreme Activities.

Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you

Trip Cancellation

Been working hard for your trip?

We'll work hard to protect it.

Trip Protection
  • Work emergency?
  • Weather delay?
  • Travel companion sick?

We’ve got your back.

Emergency Medical Expenses

Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?

Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.

Emergency Medical Insurance
  • Accidentally injured?
  • Suddenly sick?
  • Need a hospital?

We’ve got your back.

Emergency Medical Transportation

Know where the nearest hospital is?

Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.

Evacuation and Repatriation
  • Ambulance transfers
  • Medevac flights
  • Medical escort services

Help starts here.

Protect your gear

Love photography, filming or sport?

Cover your bags, tech or gear.

Protect your gear
  • Stolen I.D.s
  • Checked-in sports equipment
  • Damaged luggage

Help starts here.

  • Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
  • Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
  • Trip Cancellation or Interruption
  • 24-Hour Assistance Services
  • Baggage
  • And more (depending on your country of residence)
*This is a general summary only. Restrictions, exclusions and limitations will apply. Coverage may not be available for all countries, states or provinces. Benefit limits may vary depending on the plan chosen. Get a quote for full details.

24/7 emergency assistance

Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.

Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?

Contact the team